Qik adds Android to iPhone video calls

Right on the heels of last month's Video Connect app release for iPhone, Qik today announces Video Connect for Android, which means another big step in the way of ubiquitous, cross-platform video phone calls.

Right on the heels of last month's Video Connect app release for iPhone, Qik today announces Video Connect for Android. So what does this analogous pair of apps mean in the grand scheme of mobile communications? It means another big step in the way of ubiquitous, cross-platform video phone calls. Adding the ability to initiate video calls between
Android and iOS devices over 3G, 4G, Wi-Fi, and WiMax networks is sure to bring the already popular app tons of new users.

In addition to its primary video calling feature, the app offers integrated sharing across social media (Facebook, Twitter, or YouTube) and video mail for when friends aren't available for live chat. Note that the video mail feature is available as a free trial only until June 1 this year, after which it will be available for an extra fee.

Qik also claims the app comes with "improved battery life, smoother video, [and] better picture quality through deep device and hardware integration in collaboration with handset manufacturers," which is all good news if true.

Just update your preloaded Qik app, or find Qik Video Connect in the Android app store for instant download. Interested parties should act fast though, as the app is available for free only this week. After, it will jump to $2.99.

Jaymar Cabebe covers mobile apps and Windows software for CNET. While he may be a former host of the Android Atlas Weekly podcast, he doesn't hate iOS or Mac. Jaymar has worked in online media since 2007.